If you’re new to angling, the various types of fishing reels on offer can be confusing. But don’t be surprised – choosing the right reel is a dilemma as old as the hills. As any angler will tell you, knowing the pros and cons of each type of reel can make or break your day on the water. Thankfully, things are a lot easier than they might seem, and today, you’re going to learn how to choose your own.
A few questions come into play when choosing the right fishing reel. Number one, what style of fishing is it best suited for? Two, how easy is it to operate? How long will it last? And what’s the price?
As we cover the most important types of fishing reels, we’ll cover all of these questions and more. By the time you’re finished reading, you’ll know exactly what you need to bring ‘em in!
Spincast Reel
The spincast is by far the simplest modern fishing reel out there. With it’s basic design, this guy is ideal for beginners or anglers on a budget. You don’t see them a lot these days, but a few decades ago, spincast reels used to be all the rage.
TYPES OF PENN REELS
Penn reels offer a range of different types of reels that are suitable for people conducting many different types of fishing:
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Spinning Reels: These are the most popular type of reel for freshwater anglers. They typically have a level wind system which means that they are easy to use and offer smooth casting even in adverse conditions such as high winds or choppy seas.
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Baitcaster Reels: This type of reel relies on centrifugal force generated by rotating gears to cast out your bait or lure out. Baitcaster reels have been designed to help you cast more accurately.
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Conventional Reels: These reels have been designed for salt water and are very popular among professionals. They typically come with a heavy-duty level wind system that is capable of handling the high-pressure line needed to maintain performance in deep or rough seas.
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Offshore Reels: Designed for fishing the open sea. They are made of high-strength materials and have been engineered to handle any kind of weather conditions.
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Inshore Reels: These are best for fishing in shallower waters. They are generally smaller reels that can be used for handling smaller fish that you typically find closer to shore.
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Surf Reels: Specifically created for fishing in the surf. They are similar to spinning reels which have been designed to cast further and with ease. Typically have a wide, shallow spool to allow line to come off the reel easier when casting! They are generally much bigger than your average spinning reel too.
